Saturday. Huan ying, welcome to China! Airport arrival transfer and hotel check in. Remainder of the afternoon at leisure. Overnight - Beijing

Today, we drive beyond Beijing to Badaling, to walk a section of the famous Great Wall. A symbol of total Chinese genius, the Great Wall is a cultural icon. At least 20 dynasties were involved in its construction. Stretching some 6700 kilometres, we walk along just a small chunk of this massive masterpiece of human endeavour.

Afterwards we enjoy lunch and visit cloisonne workshop, viewing the step-by-step process of this curious, yet quite beautiful art form. Tonight, we attend a Chinese acrobatic performance. Overnight - Beijing (B, L, D)

Beijing - Xi’an. Tiananmen Square is essentially the heart of Beijing. A patriotic vision of grandeur, Tiananmen Square is a square for the public and also home of the mausoleum of Chairman Mao and the striking Monument to the People’s Heroes. Perhaps one of Beijing’s most famous sights is the Gate of Heavenly Peace. Up above the gate and looking out across to all his people, is Chairman Mao.

Later we take a rickshaw ride through the Hutongs of Beijing. As our trusty rickshaw driver peddles us through the network of alleys and old back lanes, we gain a fascinating snapshot of the city’s traditional way of life. After a break for lunch we travel to the Silk Alley markets for a spot of shopping before boarding the overnight sleeper train (4 berth soft sleeper cabin) to Xi’an. Overnight - Sleeper Train (B)

Arrive Xi’an, hotel check in and free morning. If time allows, opt for a morning dip in the hotels heated swimming pool. Perhaps the find of the 20th century the Terracotta Warriors comprise more than 7,000 life-sized soldiers which stand in military formation in excavated pits under the cover of a modern protective hanger. Made of local clay, no two faces are alike. Later today we visit the Terracotta Warrior archaeological site and a workshop where warrior figurines are made. Overnight - Xi'an (B, L)

Xi’an - Shanghai. Early this morning we depart on an excursion by road to the Shaanxi Rare Wildlife Rescue and Breeding Centre, a shelter for ill or injured Giant Pandas in the region (approx 2 hrs drive from Xi’an). With an estimate of less than 2000 Giant Pandas remaining on the planet, the species is one of the world’s most endangered mammals. Of the Pandas remaining in China only 239 live in captivity. The Panda’s at Shaanxi will be released into one of the 40 designated Panda reserves once in full health.

Encircling Xi’an’s old city is the 15km in length and 6 metres wide medieval wall. This afternoon we’ll take a leisurely bicycle ride along the wall (solo or tandem). Looking down offers delightful views of the city hubbub and daily life. Afterwards we spend some time in the down town area, giving an opportunity to enjoy a western meal if you choose before boarding our overnight sleeper train to Shanghai. Overnight - Sleeper Train (B)

Good morning Shanghai! Perhaps China’s most modern city, its amazing Pudong skyline is stunning. Spend the morning at leisure and later this afternoon we take a drive along the Bund and through old Shanghai before departing on a sunset cruise along the Huangpu River with dinner afterward Overnight - Shanghai (B, D)

Today offers free time to independently explore. Perhaps visit the Oriental Pearl TV tower, the Jade Buddha Temple, French Quarter or take a more interactive approach and discover Shanghai’s Science and Technology Museum with IMAX 3D, IWERKS 4D and space theatres, it’s a top spot for kids! Overnight - Shanghai (B)

Saturday. It's time to take your little Warriors or Dragons home. Our tour concludes after breakfast, hotel check out is at 12 noon and included departure transfer to the airport. Happy Travels! (B)